Honorees will be celebrated at the 3rd annual National Convention August 14-16 in New York City

New York; June 28, 2010. Ascend, the premier professional leadership organization dedicated to leveraging the global business potential of Pan-Asians, has opened nominations for the "Ascend/Deloitte Inspirational Leadership Award” and "Inspiring Across Generations” Recognitions. These recognitions celebrate the achievements and tireless volunteerism of Pan-Asian business leaders, who by these actions can serve as role models.

The honorees are visible leaders who have been nominated by their colleagues, staff, and/or fellow executives. Candidates can be Pan-Asians, Asian-Americans, or non-Asians who have worked for the benefit of Pan-Asian Americans in business, mentoring and volunteering. Honorees will be invited and expected to attend the National Convention Gala dinner on Monday, August 16, 2010, in New York City to be recognized.

Annual Ascend/Deloitte Inspirational Leadership Award: recognizing a single individual who has had a meaningful impact on accounting, finance, or related professions, demonstrated leadership in the marketplace, and shown commitment to community service. Individuals from all industries, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations are eligible. Community work may involve social or civic issues, address health or environmental concerns, or promote the arts and humanities. Nominees should demonstrate unwavering leadership prowess and a sincere concern for the success of others in serving the Pan-Asian community.

NEW! Ascend Inspiring Across Generations Recognitions: given to those with distinguished business careers or potential who have shown exemplary dedication promoting Pan-Asian American leadership in industry, corporations, and the community, through Ascend or other volunteer organizations. All industries and functions are eligible, including marketing, strategy, IT, HR, diversity and operations. Criteria include:

- Achievement of major success and impact in business and career, or demonstration of great potential

- Eminence in Pan-Asian American groups, affinity/ERG organizations or across the broader community

- Leadership in regular volunteering, mentoring and professional development in the community, serving as officers or on boards

Recognitions are grouped by age as follows: Ascend Inspirational Leaders: recognizing several executive or CXO leaders 50 and up Ascend High-Impact Leaders: recognizing several senior business leaders or executives 40 and up Ascend Rising Stars: recognizing several business leaders 30 and up

Ascend encourages corporations to nominate executives and senior managers who deserve recognition; corporations can use their own internal process to select nominees. Honorees will be decided upon by the Ascend National Board and Executive Director. Online nomination for each of the above awards are available on Ascend’s website at www.ascendleadership.org. The deadline for submissions is July 16, 2010. Please note: honorees should plan to attend the National Convention Gala in New York on August 16 to accept.

AboutAscend: Ascend’s mission is to enhance the presence and influence of current and future business leaders of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. The majority of members are from fields with high concentrations of Asians, including business, finance, accounting, and technology. Coverage includes 11 professional chapters and 22 student chapters nationwide. Membership is open to all individuals who share the mission, regardless of ethnicity and professional background. Ascend is a 501(c)6 nonprofit organization.